Consequences of Social Media Addiction: A Triadic Perspective on Mental, Social, and Physical Health

Abstract

In the current digital landscape, social media addiction has become increasingly prominent, particularly among adolescents and young adults. This narrative review investigates the concept, theoretical frameworks, and wide-ranging effects of social media addiction on individual psychological, physiological, and social aspects. It also explored the use of social media in educational settings and strategies to lessen reliance on it. Theoretical framework provides insights into the development and perseverance of social media addiction. This review highlights negative psychological consequences, including increased stress, anxiety, depression, loneliness, and reduced attention span. Socially, its excessive use leads to isolation, weakened face-to-face social skills, and strained personal relationships. Physically, addiction disrupts sleep patterns, causes eye strain, and impairs cognitive functions. Although social media can support learning and collaboration in educational environments, it also increases distractions and reduces concentration. Addressing these challenges requires comprehensive intervention strategies, such as time management training, cognitive-behavioral therapies, and digital literacy programs. Future research should focus on developing holistic intervention programs, conducting longitudinal studies, evaluating strategies across demographics, exploring AI-driven solutions, enhancing digital literacy curricula, and examining cultural factors influencing addiction.